"'Tis distance lends enchantment to the view,
And robes the mountain in its azure hue."
-Thomas Campbell
Poor air quality in the East directly affects hikers and others who recreate outdoors. Haze diminishes our scenic views and ozone pollution affects our lungs. The sources of haze and ozone pollution also emit carbon dioxide, a strong greenhouse gas.
By participating in the AMC’s Mountain Watch air quality study as a Visibility Volunteer, your observations become an important part of understanding haze pollution and how it affects mountain views.
Being a Visibility Volunteer (Viz Vol) is simple:
- Download a data sheet or pick one up at an AMC Destination.
- Plan a hike on your favorite trail and pack your camera.
- Take a photo from the top of a peak or a good viewpoint along the trail.
- Record your opinion of the view and supply other information as requested on data sheet and send it with the photo to the AMC.
Teachers: Check out this on-line curriculum 
and AMC online background information on ozone and haze pollution.
Read our
fact sheet about ozone and haze pollution and their impact on hikers.
Air Pollution and Hiker Health:
Ground-level ozone results from pollution emitted by vehicles and power plants. It occurs mainly in the summertime, when these pollutants are heated by the sun and formed into ozone molecules. Ozone directly impacts the health of outdoor enthusiasts, as high concentrations of ozone and/or more hours of exposure can cause temporary damage to our lungs and affect our lung capacity.
Air Pollution and the Disappearing View:
Hazy days that bring poor views are not solely caused by humidity as commonly believed. Tiny air pollution particles, or aerosols, cause most haze. Regional haze is pollution that is transported hundreds of miles. The primary pollutants in haze are sulfate and nitrate aerosols. Most sulfates come from coal-burning power plants and most nitrates come from cars and smokestacks.
For more information on how to participate in AMC’s Visibility Volunteer Program email us at AMCMtnwatch@outdoors.org.
